20 Cool Protective Styles You'll Want to Wear Through Spring

Growing up, I rarely saw black celebrities without their hair straightened. While protective styles like braids, locs, and twists have been around for centuries, they were practically nonexistent outside of smaller black communities. Even there, straight hair was considered special-occasion hair. It wasn't until my college years that I finally began to see styles like Havana twists and Fulani braids represented (and, no, they are notBo Derek braids). But really, protective styles are more than a trend—they’re black-girl magic personified. Not only are they relatively low-maintenance, but they're also a reminder of who I am and where my people came from. I've been keeping a running list of celebrity looks bookmarked to get me through the winter—loving them is easy, choosing which to wear next? Well, good luck.

Faux Three Strand Braid

Senegalese Twist Updo

Take a fresh approach to a mainstream chignon by styling it with Senegalese twists. Although it may look complicated, it's anything but: Just pull back your twists into a high pony and swoop to one side.

Faux Locs

Goddess Locs

Some prefer the more rugged look of goddess locs versus faux-locs. The ends are unsealed and a silkier hair is required. Opting for natural hair rather than synthetic to achieve the ultimate sheen is also an option.

Halo Braid

Cuffed Halo Braid

Who needs jewelry when you can add hair cuffs to a full halo braid? If you're looking for the illusion of straighter hair or a sleeker finish, just look for silkier Kanekalon bundles and get to braiding.